"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

For Emily and Michael, hope began when someone believed in them.

Not long ago, Emily was struggling with addiction, depression, and a lack of confidence. Through Hope Haven's Intensive Psychiatric Rehabilitation (IPR) and Peer Support programs, she found encouragement, lasting friendships, and people who supported her without judgment. Today, she is maintaining her recovery, working toward employment, and beginning college. Reflecting on how far she’s come, Emily shared, "It literally transformed my life into somebody who didn't even want to get out of bed because she was so depressed. Now she has a job, she comes to group, and she's starting college."

Michael's path looked different, but he also felt stuck. Legal restrictions created barriers that made pursuing education seem impossible. When he joined Hope Haven's IPR program, he began setting goals and building a plan for the future. With support from his doctors and Hope Haven staff, especially Teresa, accommodations were made so he could pursue his dream of attending college.

Today, Michael is enrolled at Iowa Central Community College and working toward a psychology degree with the goal of helping others one day. "I feel like there's a direction to my life now,” Michael shared. “Now I feel like there's actually progress being made."

While their stories are different, Emily and Michael share a common thread: both found support, purpose, and hope through Hope Haven's mental health services.

Programs like IPR and Peer Support help individuals build confidence, discover their strengths, and pursue meaningful goals. Whether that goal is employment, education, stronger relationships, or greater independence, Hope Haven walks alongside each person on their journey.

Every day, Hope Haven's mental health services help people move forward with confidence and hope. Your generosity makes that possible. Because of supporters like you, individuals like Emily and Michael can continue building brighter futures and discovering that their past does not define them.

Thank you for being a source of hope and encouragement for those we serve.